Australia has booked their place in the semi-finals of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 for the first time in 16 years. Steve Smith’s squad confirmed their spot in the last-four stage after their crucial Group B clash against Afghanistan was abandoned due to rain at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Friday, February 28.
Australia’s Strong Start Cut Short by Rain
Chasing a 274-run target, Australia got off to a flying start, courtesy of an explosive innings from Travis Head. The Aussies were cruising at 109 for 1 in just 12.5 overs before rain interrupted play. Despite the brief 30-minute downpour, excessive water accumulation on the outfield led to the match being called off, securing Australia’s semi-final berth.
Australia’s Champions Trophy History and Current Performance
Australia, who previously won the Champions Trophy in 2006 and 2009, had disappointing campaigns in 2013 and 2017, failing to win a single game in both editions. However, despite entering this year’s tournament with an injury-hit squad, the reigning world champions have once again demonstrated their resilience by advancing to the knockout stage.
With four points from three matches, Australia now sits atop Group B. Meanwhile, South Africa is the frontrunner to join them in the semi-finals. If South Africa beats England in their upcoming match, Afghanistan will be eliminated. However, Afghanistan retains a slim hope of qualification, needing England to defeat South Africa by a margin of over 200 runs.
Afghanistan’s Heartbreak After Impressive Performance
Afghanistan entered the match with high hopes following a sensational victory over England, where they defended 325 in Lahore. However, their batting lineup faltered against Australia’s disciplined bowling attack.
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz fell for a duck to Spencer Johnson.
- Ibrahim Zadran, who scored a remarkable 177 against England, managed only 22 before falling to Adam Zampa.
- Sediqullah Atal played a brilliant knock of 85 but lacked support from the middle order.
- Azmatullah Omarzai, the ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year for 2024, contributed 67 off 63 balls, helping Afghanistan post a competitive total.
Travis Head’s Dominant Knock Ahead of Knockouts
Australia’s batting was spearheaded by Travis Head, who capitalized on Afghanistan’s poor fielding. He remained unbeaten on 59 off just 40 balls, smashing a six and nine boundaries. His performance was a strong statement ahead of the semi-finals, especially after missing out against England earlier in the tournament.
Matt Short also got a start, scoring 20 off 15 balls, but his early dismissal did not stop Australia’s aggressive approach.
Australia’s Bowling Shows Improvement
Australia’s bowling attack displayed significant improvement compared to their opening game against England, where they conceded over 300 runs.
- Ben Dwarshuis was the standout performer with three wickets.
- Spencer Johnson and Adam Zampa took two wickets each.
- Glenn Maxwell contributed with a crucial six-over spell, conceding just 28 runs and claiming one wicket.
What’s Next in the Champions Trophy 2025?
The final standings for the semi-finalists will be confirmed by Sunday. The last Group B match between England and South Africa will take place on Saturday in Karachi, while India and New Zealand face off in their final Group A game in Dubai on Sunday.
Stay tuned for the latest updates, Champions Trophy points table, and full coverage of the tournament.